A newly-formed town in northern New Brunswick received provincial and federal money Tuesday for upgrades to a sporting complex used by the local curling club.
The province and Ottawa announced an investment of more than $700,000 in upgrades to the Sportek Rodolphe Boudreau in the Town of Belle-Baie, north of Bathurst.
“The Sportek Rodolphe Boudreau is important community infrastructure for Belle-Baie and the region,” said Réjean Savoie, the Regional Development Corporation minister, in a news release.
“Our government is pleased to invest in this project that is very much in line with our commitment to build vibrant and sustainable communities.”
Officials say upgrades to the facility, which also houses the region’s only seasonal farmers market, will include roof repairs and washroom improvements.
Acadie-Bathurst MP Serge Cormier said the federal government believes that investments in community infrastructure are essential to a strengthened economy and support a higher standard of living.
“I am proud of our government’s financial participation in this project, which will enable the community to harness its assets to create jobs and sustain the many wonderful small businesses that define this region.”
The province says it will invest $462,000 through the Regional Development Corporation, while Ottawa, through the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, will contribute $242,750.
Mayor Daniel Guitard said he’s pleased to continue this project, which was initiated by the previous council of the former Town of Beresford.
He added the arena is an important infrastructure that gives merchants access to a busy distribution point during the summer.
“It is also a structure that welcomes many curling enthusiasts from here and elsewhere, filling our hotels and restaurants,” he said.
“A great example of a collaborative project, promoting tourism and economic development.”